Description
Crispy baked chicken tenders that deliver the satisfying crunch of fried chicken without the mess or extra oil. Perfectly seasoned, golden brown, and juicy inside, ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
1 lb chicken breast tenders (or chicken breast cut into strips)
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
2 tbsp water
1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Olive oil spray (or melted butter for brushing)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with whisked eggs and water, and one with panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne if using.
- Coat each chicken tender in flour, shaking off excess, then dip in egg mixture, and press into breadcrumb mixture until well coated.
- Arrange tenders in a single layer on the baking sheet. Lightly spray with olive oil or brush with melted butter.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
For extra flavor, add dried herbs like oregano or thyme to the breadcrumb mixture.
Substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or add chili powder for heat.
Use gluten-free flour and panko alternatives for a gluten-free version.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 8-10 minutes to keep crispiness; avoid microwaving.
Flipping halfway through baking ensures even browning and crispiness.
Thaw frozen chicken tenders completely and pat dry before breading.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 4 tenders)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
